Category Development Leader – Convenience (Snacking) - fixed term for 18 months

Job Description:

Brands: M&M’S®, SNICKERS®, TWIX®, EXTRA®, SKITTLES®

As the Category Development Leader – Convenience (fixed term for 18 months) , you will drive the growth strategy for our iconic Snacking brands across high-impulse retail channels (petrol stations, kiosks, and smart stores). You will turn shopper insights and market data into actionable assortment, shelf, and checkout strategies—serving as a trusted category advisor to key retail partners in Germany.

What would be your key responsibilities?

- Shopper Insights & Strategy: Analyze shopper behavior to create actionable growth plans, lead our Checkout Champion initiatives, and leverage AI-driven analytics to unlock new category insights.
- Customer Partnerships: Partner directly with leading Convenience retailers to co-create tailored growth strategies, positioning Mars as the go-to category expert.
- Assortment & Planograms: Develop channel-specific layout and space recommendations to optimize shopper navigation and maximize impulse buying.
- In-Store Execution ("Perfect Store"): Advise on Picture of Success (PICOF) standards for the Convenience sector to ensure flawless execution at the point of sale.
- Cross-Functional Alignment: Connect Key Account Management and Brand/Portfolio teams to ensure category insights shape commercial discussions.

What are we looking for?

- Proven track record in Category Management / Category Development within FMCG
- Prior experience in Key Account Management or customer-facing commercial roles is a strong plus .
- Analytical Skills: Proficiency in market data (e.g., NielsenIQ, scan data) with the ability to turn data into compelling business stories; eager to explore AI tools.
- Communication & Influence: Proven ability to build trusted relationships and influence both internal teams and external retail partners.
- Languages: Business fluency in both German and English (written and spoken).

What can you expect from Mars?

- Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
- Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
- A strong focus on learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
- An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

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